Exploring The Different Types Of Whiskey
Posted on: 20 January 2023
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Whiskey has been around for centuries, and its popularity continues to grow. Whether you enjoy sipping it neat or adding it to your favorite cocktail, whiskey is an incredibly versatile spirit that comes in many varieties. Here's what you need to know about the different types of whiskey, how they're made, and how they can be enjoyed.
What Is Whiskey?
Whiskey is a distilled spirit made from fermented grains, like barley or corn. To officially be dubbed whiskey, the liquid must be aged in wooden barrels. Several different types of whiskey are available on the market today, ranging from traditional Scotch whisky to American bourbon whiskey.
How Is Whiskey Made?
The process of making whiskey begins with the grains being mixed with water. This 'mash' is fermented with yeast before being distilled in copper stills. Traditionally, after distillation, the liquid is aged in wooden barrels for at least "three years and a day" before being bottled. However, the length of time the whiskey ages in the barrel can vary from one type of whiskey to another.
What Are Flavored Whiskeys?
Flavored whiskeys are infused with additional flavors such as fruit, spices, herbs, or even chocolate. These flavors can come from natural sources such as fresh fruit juice or extracts derived from plants or spices. The flavorings can also come from artificial sources, such as flavorings added directly to the finished product. Popular flavored whiskeys are vanilla, cinnamon, maple, and even peanut butter.
How Is Flavor Added to Whiskey?
Flavorings can be added directly to finished whiskeys using a variety of methods, including infusion and maceration. Some whiskeys may also be blended with other flavored spirits, such as liqueurs or brandies, to give them an extra boost of flavor without having to add any additional ingredients.
What Are the Benefits of Flavored Whiskeys?
Flavored whiskeys offer drinkers an opportunity to explore new flavors while still enjoying the classic taste of traditional whiskies. They can make great additions to cocktails and mixed drinks and provide an easy way for people who are new to drinking spirits to get started without feeling overwhelmed by strong flavors. Additionally, flavored whiskeys tend to be less expensive than traditional whiskies due to their lower alcohol content and shorter aging times.
From traditional Scotch whisky to American bourbon whiskey, there's something special about whiskey, and each type is unique. Experiment with different flavored whiskeys until you find what you like. Cheers!